Team India bowling coach Morne Morkel noted that captain Shubman Gill will have the final say regarding the spin bowling unit in the playing XI for the upcoming first Test against Sri Lanka. The two subcontinent sides will face each other in the series opener at the Galle International Stadium, from Saturday, August 15 onwards.
Despite Washington Sundar’s injury and absence, Team India have options to choose from in the spin department. The trio of left-arm spinners Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar, and Kuldeep Yadav are accompanied by the uncapped off-spinner, Saransh Jain.
With emphasis on spin, considering the conditions on offer, Morne Morkel believes that each spinner brings something different to the table and are all skilful.
“Kuldeep is an attacking spinner, Jadeja has class and experience. Our three left-arm spinners are different. They have the skill. Depends on how Shubman uses them,” Morne Morkel said during the pre-series press conference (via Times of India).
All spinners had the opportunity to roll their arm over during the three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI in Colombo. The spin quartet had a huge say in the six-wicket win, picking up eight wickets in total, with Ravindra Jadeja bagging two wickets in both innings.
“Can use spin as an attacking option” – Morne Morkel backs Indian spinners to play a massive role in SL vs IND 2026 1st Test
Team India arrived at the Galle International Stadium for their first practice session on Thursday, August 12. The trio of head coach Gautam Gambhir, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, and captain Shubman Gill were spotted having an intense discussion, while sharing a word with the curators as well.
“Looks a good surface, can use spin as an attacking option with pace from the other end. It’s all about mindset and as the match will go on, there will be up and down; uneven bounce,” Morkel said of the pitch.
“The ball will go soft after 20-25 overs. Need to be smart – use the crease, short ball and execute the plans. Surface looks good to the eye and first innings could belong to the batters. Bat big,” he added.
Team India, currently placed fifth in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings are in need of wins to remain alive in the race for the finals.
Edited by Gokul Nair